Free Talk


-	Hi, it's Watsuki, it's been a long time. In the Shonen Jump, the Kyoto Arc is already
over and a new Arc has already begun. Although I'm having more headaches than before, I'm 
still keeping my good mood and working hard.

- 	Now, let's begin about the figure talks. The figure boom of late is really awesome.
How awesome? Awesome so that even my otaku mind came out from lurker mode! (... well, this is
nothing of an explanation... ) Anyway, I believe I'll have already in my hands, by the time
this book is out, the original Getter 1 version from that famous company. I'd be much more
happier if they sell Getter 2 or 3. 

(note from Serizawa: I understand nothing about those toys,so the translation may be wrong. 
For example, Watsuki sensei could be saying that he would get the most coveted figure from 
that famous company, and he is hoping for the release of the second and third most coveted 
figures -- although I don't think so. Anyway, if you know all the details, please e-mail me)

	About the Western toys, I keep on focusing on X-Men and Spawn, sometimes buying some
other figures of interest. Even though it's a boom, I keep in mind to choose carefully what
to buy. Each person has his own manias, but I don't feel like spending 300 or 400 bucks just
for a figure. Anyway, I hope that the figures will not be only one more boom, but rather they
will establish themselves as a true toy genre. (and I hope American comics won't be another
boom also)

-	About the games, talk a bit about the finally released for domestic entertainment, the
long awaited "Vampire Saviour". At the point I write this, I realise I've played just for few
times, but I feel sorry for Morrigan, who's got weaker. But, as usual, I'm completely hooked 
and even if I am utterly destroyed in the combat, it'll be okay if it's Morrigan. And Galon is
cool too. About the new characters, I am intrigued with Lorrigan/Lilith (not that I'm intrigued
with the character itself, but with its relationship with Morrigan, so let's not misunderstand).
So, as you see, I've been using quite a lot of characters, so I'll let those new characters 
away for a while. After the initial enthusiasm, I intend to test all the new characters. But
the games I've got hooked feature either samurai or robots or monsters, and NO common people...
I'm a bit depressed.

-	Changing the subject, about the fan letters. I really thank you for that. There are not
only letters of support, but letters of criticisms and complaints, and each time I read them
I think about the subject of complaint/criticism and I feel sorry where it's due. Especially 
about the Free Talk of Volume 14, there were parts that I didn't choose the right words, and I 
agree with the many letters of complaint. Also there are lots of criticism about my view of the
Souchou (Counselor) Yamanami Keisuke from the Shinsengumi. About these two points, I'm thinking
about to write about them in the next volume. In fact, it would be nice to answer individually
every complaints, criticisms, doubts and questions, but due to the amount of letters and my
lack of time, that won't be possible. At least, I want to make an exciting piece of work as a
manga artist, so I'd be glad if you keep on reading. So, let's meet again in the next volume.